Description

The famous peaks and multi-pitch routes of the Mont Blanc massif and Aiguilles Rouges range get all the press, but the Chamonix valley has worthwhile cragging: good rock, no access problems, and fine views of those famous peaks.

Cliffs and rocks and crags within walking distance of an road drivable with a 2-wheel-drive normal-clearance passenger vehicle are included under this "Valley crags" part of Chamonix on MountainProject.

Info -- There is at least one sport-climbing guidebook in English which also includes more crags beyond Chamonix area, and at least one general Chamonix climbing guidebook which includes description of some of the valley crags.

Getting There

Of course most of these crags are most easily reached with a motor vehicle, but many can also be accessed from a train station or shuttle bus.

This 5-pitch climb alternates between slab and face/crack climbing. The only down side of the entire climb is the rather uninteresting 3rd pitch. Overall the climbing is great.As with most of the climbs here, just follow the bolts. It starts out with a nice slab, and there are two variations. (5.7)The second pitch is excellent. Climb the steep face just right of a crack. If you brought a rack (up to 2" cams) you can skip the bolts and climb the crack (or do a combination of both) (5.7+).The 3rd ...[more]Browse More Classics in International